Joel wrote:

I realize that independent travel to game parks while possible may be
self
defeating. Without knowledge of animal behavior and how to approach, I
may essentially be driving around for a week and spending a lot of
money to do so.

Especially true of self-drive safaris in east Africa. Parks are big, roads

are generally not marked, and you could waste time just trying to
find your way around.

I have no desire to be on a bus with 8 -10 people looking through a
small window and constantly driving around. I suspect that in order to
fully experience the parks that one must be patient and wait for things
to develop. I suspect that I will not get that on a typical safari
minivan.

It really does depend on the guide/driver for your vehicle. We offer
private safaris where the clients have the vehicle and guide to
themselves and he is then free of the need to please everyone.
In any case, you shouldn't expect more than 6 travelers in any
vehicle, and all will have window seats. And the roof pops up
for even better viewing.

My preliminary questions a

1. Is it advisable to use a tour company the first time around? What
do I gain or miss by doing so?

I say yes. You gain efficiency, for one thing. You give up the personal
responsibility for having things turn out right and give that job to
people who do it every day of their lives and do it well.
You can expect to make better use of your money as well. They provide
all your lodging and transportation at costs no more (and quite likely
less) than you can get buying all services, etc., yourself.
What do you miss? Some of the freedom we all enjoy of having your
own vehicle (especially true in South Africa).

2. Where does one find reputable companies to deal with?

A travel agent who has actual experience in safaris.

3. Is it possible to combine self touring on several days and hire
guides/driver for other days? Kruger has options like this where you
can pay to go a game drive.

Yes, and this would be the absolute best approach if you do
pick South Africa.

4. Would I better off spending several days on a private reserve?
Although it costs significantly more I might have a better experience.

Hard to say. Tour operators in South Africa usually use private reserves
because accommodations inside Kruger that (they consider to be) are of
an international standard (posh) are limited. But they are expensive.
In east Africa, you will be doing your safari in government owned
or operated reserves, so this is not relevant.

5. Putting US State Department hyperbole aside, is there any validity
to their concerns about Kenya? Curious to here feedback from other
Americans who have traveled there within the last year.

Our September group in Kenya had one of the best experiences any
of our clients have ever had. Same true for those who went earlier
in 2004. Not a whisper of anxiety, uneasiness.
Year after year, travelers to Kenya (not just ours) come back wishing
they hadn't had to leave.